Full Notification

Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose announces that 824 summonses for violations of the Executive Order to stop the spread of COVID-19 were issued and that 44 non-essential businesses were closed last week.

“We’ve stepped up our enforcement efforts to keep people safe,” Director Ambrose said. “Those individuals and businesses who are not taking this health emergency seriously are being addressed to promote public safety throughout the City of Newark.”

The enforcement of a complete lockdown of the city was announced on March 31st, including a joint agreement with the neighboring cities of East Orange, Orange and Irvington. Under this lockdown operation, non-essential and non-emergency travel is barred on the streets of each town and violators face summonses and other legal action. The lockdown operation will be re-evaluated by the mayors of the four towns tomorrow.

“Our commitment is to safeguard our residents and visitors against COVID-19 exposure,” Director Ambrose said. “Educating the public about the Executive Order is an important first step, but when individuals and businesses blatantly violate the Order aimed at keeping people safe, we have to execute enforcement. We are also encouraging people to use masks in public,” he added.

No summonses were issued to motorists as part of last week’s Executive Order enforcement.

Newark police are conducting patrols to assist people in practicing social distancing. To report COVID-19 violations, please call: 973-733-6000.